The mission of the MIPP is to promote, create and disseminate knowledge, to expand opportunities for all, and to educate on photography. The Institute therefore strives to foster an environment in which all are included, all are given an equal opportunity to attend, learn and explore, in which differences as well as commonalities are celebrated, and in which dissenting viewpoints are not only tolerated but encouraged. Acts of hatred, intolerant conduct and acts of discrimination that demean our differences, are antithetical to the values of the MIPP.
Institute policy prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender, gender expression, gender identity, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, medical condition (cancer-related or genetic characteristics), genetic information (including family medical history), ancestry, marital status, age, sexual orientation, citizenship, service in the uniformed services, or the intersection of any of these factors. Prohibited discrimination arising from historical biases, stereotypes and prejudices jeopardizes the research, teaching and service mission of the Institute. This mission is best served when members of the University community collaborate to foster an equal learning environment for all, in which all members of the community are welcomed and confident of their physical safety.
Anti-Semitism and other forms of discrimination have no place in the Institute and should any forms of discrimination emerge, the Institute is bound to take immediate action. Freedom of expression and freedom of inquiry are paramount for the MIPP.
Each member of the Institute community is entitled to speak, to be heard, and to be engaged based on the merits of their views, and unburdened by historical biases, stereotypes and prejudices. Discourse that reflects such biases, stereotypes or prejudice can undermine the equal and welcoming learning environment that the Institute strives to foster. The Institute seeks to educate members of the community to recognize, understand and avoid biases, stereotypes and prejudices. Mutual respect and civility within debate and dialogue advance the mission of the Institute and its members.
Actions that physically or otherwise interfere with the ability of an individual or group to assemble, speak, and share or hear the opinions of others (within time place and manner restrictions adopted by the Institute) impair the mission and intellectual life will not be tolerated.
Harassment, threats, assaults, vandalism, and destruction of property, as defined by University policy, will not be tolerated within the Institute community. Where investigation establishes that such unlawful conduct was targeted at an individual or individuals based on discrimination prohibited by Institute policy, Institute administrators should consider disciplinary measures as per Institute Statute.
Fostering mutual respect is paramount for the Institute and all possible steps permissible under law will be taken to safeguard this.